Victoria loses bid to host 2022 Commonwealth Games

The Commonwealth Games in 2022 will be hosted by Birmingham, England, after outbidding Canada, Australia and Malaysia.

The Games federation made the announcement Thursday morning in the U.K. city, following a nine month decision process.

Federation president Louise Martin applauded the city’s ambitious and innovative vision to engage and benefit its local community, showcase the best of global Britain and warmly welcome and inspire athletes and fans from around the commonwealth.

Martin also recognized the competing bids, including one from right here in B.C.

Earlier this year, David Black, who owns community news company Black Press Media and was head of the Victoria Commonwealth Games committee, brought forward their proposed bid to have the 2022 games take place in B.C.’s capital and the Lower Mainland.